2 large Aubergines
extra Virgin Olive oil
1 tablespoon dried Oregano
1 dried red Chilli, crumbled (optional)
4 cloves of Garlic, peeled and finely sliced
a large bunch of fresh Basil, stalks finely sliced keep the leaves
1 teaspoon White wine vinegar
2 x 400g tins of Pomodoro Tomatoes, chopped
Sea salt and freshly ground black Pepper
150g salted ricotta, pecorino or parmesan cheese grated
Slice your aubergines in half lengthways and then in half again so they are finger sized pieces. If the aubergines have fluffy centres remove them and chuck away.
Get a large non stick pan and add a little oil. Fry the eggplants in two batches, adding a little extra oil if you need to. Give the eggplants a toss so the oil coats every single piece and then sprinkle with some of the dried oregano—this will make them taste fantastic. Using a pair of tongs, turn the pieces of eggplant until golden on all sides. Remove to a plate and do the same with the second batch.
When the eggplants are all cooked, add the first batch back to the pan, if you are using the chilli add it in now. Turn the heat down to medium and add a little oil, the garlic, and the basil stems. Stir so everything gets evenly cooked, then add a swig of herb vinegar and the cans of tomatoes. Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, then taste and correct the seasoning. Tear up half the basil leaves, add to the sauce, and toss around.
Start cooking your pasta. When it's al dente, drain it in a colander, reserving a little of the cooking water, and put it back into the pan. Add the Norma sauce and a little of the reserved cooking water and toss together back on the heat. Taste, and adjust the seasoning, then divide between your plates by twizzling the pasta into a ladle for each portion. Any sauce left in the pan can be spooned over the top. Sprinkle with the remaining basil, grated cheese, and oil.